BREAKING: Chelsea makes final Victor Osihmen transfer decision
Chelsea have officially stepped away from the pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, despite previously being linked with a move for the Nigerian international.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Blues are no longer in the race due to the high salary demands associated with the deal.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, is set to return to Napoli at the end of the season, but a summer exit remains highly likely. His contract includes a €120 million release clause, which could drop to €75-80 million if Napoli fail to offload him before June. However, Chelsea, who had been keen on signing him last summer, have now shifted their focus elsewhere.
Paris Saint-Germain, another club that had shown strong interest in Osimhen in July 2024, have also withdrawn from the race due to a change in their recruitment strategy. This leaves Manchester United as one of the few European clubs still monitoring his situation, although financial constraints could impact their ability to strike a deal.
Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli, who failed to secure Osimhen’s signature last summer, remain a potential destination, offering the financial package that could tempt both the player and Napoli.
For now, Osimhen is focused on finishing the season with Galatasaray, but discussions over his next move are expected to heat up in April or May. As Chelsea step away, their striker search will likely take a different direction ahead of the summer window.